‘Fifty Shades’ star drops out
Charlie Hunnam has dropped out of the film adaptation of Fifty Shades of Grey.
The Sons of Anarchy star – who had been cast as billionaire Christian Grey in the adaptation of EL James’ erotic novel – has quit the picture just weeks after being announced as one of the leads, with producers citing his hectic television schedule for the decision to quit.
A joint statement from Universal Pictures and Focus Features said: "The filmmakers of Fifty Shades of Grey and Charlie Hunnam have agreed to find another male lead given Hunnam’s immersive TV schedule which is not allowing him time to adequately prepare for the role of Christian Grey."
A source told E! News that it’s no surprise that Hunnam has dropped out of the film – which he had initially turned down.
"This isn’t a surprise because what he was taking on with this role was not what Charlie wants in his future career," the source said.
"The attention and the pressure was intense. More than anything he hates attention and being in Fifty Shades of Grey would force him to do lots of media. That’s really not his thing. Charlie doesn’t want to be massively famous. Plus, he hates conforming and being told what to do. This role would force him to have to be something he is not."
Dakota Johnson remains attached to the project as Anastasia Steele, the virginal love interest for Grey’s character.
